1. Belly Up Tavern
City: Solana Beach, CA
Category: Nightlife
Telephone: (858) 481-8140
Address: 143 South Cedros Avenue
Description: A classic in the county, the Belly Up Tavern has been bringing top performers and newcomer groups to the music scene since the ’70s. Ticket prices vary, ranging from $5.00 to about $45.00. The name and assets (but not the building) were recently sold; some much-needed improvements have included a redesign with a new bar, a VIP section, some reserved seating, and an improved menu at the adjacent Wild Note Café.
2. Pizza Port
City: Solana Beach, CA
Category: Nightlife
Telephone: (858) 481-7332
Address: 135 North Highway 101
Description: Yes, you’ll get pizza, but you’ll also get some great microbrewed beers with it. The music makes this place feel like party time, even though it’s not live and the loud and bustling place has a distinctly family-friendly feel. The microbrew choices vary, and the pub also has a large selection of imported beers if you prefer something continental with that garlic and feta pizza. Call for upcoming events such as the microbrew brewing contests, Real Ale Fest, and the Belgian Beer Party.
3. B&L Bike And Sports
City: Solana Beach, CA
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (858) 481-4148
Address: 211 North Highway 101
Description: B&L specializes in road bikes, triathalon bikes, cruisers, mountain bikes, and hybrids (a cross between a road bike and a mountain bike). Rentals are available by the hour, day, or week.
4. Marshalls Department Store
City: Solana Beach, CA
Category: Shopping
Telephone: (858) 755-0791
Address: 685 San Rodolfo Drive
Description: While there are other Marshalls stores in San Diego, many Insiders consider this North County Coastal store to be the best. We’re talking primo prices and larger selections, from shorts and T-shirts to business suits. This store is bigger than the others, for one thing. It stocks higher quality merchandise at the excellent discount prices one expects from Marshalls. Close by are other specialty stores that move in and out of the strip mall. Currently you’ll find an accessories shop, a lingerie store, an office supply store, and a bagel and coffee cafe.
5. Double-Take
City: Solana Beach, CA
Category: Shopping
Telephone: (858) 794-5451
Address: 731 South Highway 101
Description: This is a great place for accessories and that perfect bit of rhinestone jewelry. The store features designer brand-name clothing, purses, and shoes from Liz Claiborne to Vera Wang, which were worn once by those who can afford to, then clothe the less fortunate among us.
6. Two Sisters Consignment Home Furnishing
City: Solana Beach, CA
Category: Shopping
Telephone: (858) 755-4558
Address: 616 Stevens Avenue
Description: If you love to browse through medium- to high-end modern furnishings as well as antiques, this store is a find. Most of the pieces are well within a family’s budget.There’s a large supply of home furnishings in nearly perfect condition, and the best part is that consignments arrive daily. (While you’re in the neighborhood, check out the Cedros Avenue Shopping and Design Center.) It’s closed Sunday.
7. Antique Warehouse
City: Solana Beach, CA
Category: Shopping
Telephone: (858) 755-5156
Address: 212 South Cedros Avenue
Description: Under one warehouse roof (15,000 square feet and perfect when you want to shop for antiques and it’s wintry outdoors), this mall has more than 100 shops, and new merchandise arrives daily. If you’re on a Cedros Avenue antiques hunt, this is a good starting point for your journey.There’s great variety here: shops that specialize in bottles, brass, Depression glass, vintage clothing, western gear, and pewter. There’s always coffee and refreshments for the weary shopper. Parking and all shops are on ground level. Ask at the front desk to be steered toward specific genres or periods. They are closed on Tuesday.